All three remaining proposals for downstate casino licenses in New York City were approved by the state Gaming Facility Location Board on Monday.
The remaining bidders are Metropolitan Park at Willets Point, Queens, Resorts World New York City at the Aqueduct Racetrack in Queens and Bally’s Bronx in Throggs Neck.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. applauded the board’s approval.
“The most diverse county in the United States is quickly becoming its most economically innovative and transformative – cemented by today’s recommendation to connect tens of thousands of Queens families to good-paying union jobs and millions of residents and tourists alike to world-class entertainment,” he said in a statement.
Earlier this month, the board visited the proposed sites to get a better understanding of how each casino would impact nearby infrastructure, traffic and parking.
“From the moment that three downstate casino licenses were authorized in the 2022 State Budget, I have been clear: any approved project must provide real benefits to its community and have sustainable economic plans,” Gov Kathy Hochul said in a statement.
Now, the board will provide its recommendations to the state Gaming Commission, which is expected to have the final say on the matter by the end of the month.
Check back soon the latest updates on this developing story.
contributed to this report.